Understanding Lab Tests for Lyme Disease
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through infected tick bites. Early symptoms can mimic other conditions, making accurate diagnosis challenging. Specialized blood tests that detect antibodies against the Lyme bacteria are essential for confirming the diagnosis and ensuring appropriate treatment.
Top Recommended Test
Lyme Disease Antibody with Reflex to Antibodies IGG & IGM Blot
This comprehensive screening test detects antibodies produced in response to Borrelia burgdorferi infection. It serves as the primary diagnostic tool for Lyme disease, with automatic reflex to more specific testing if the initial screen is positive. A positive result indicates either current or past infection with the Lyme disease bacteria.
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How Lyme Disease Testing Works
When infected with Borrelia burgdorferi, your immune system produces specific antibodies to fight the bacteria. Laboratory tests can detect these antibodies in your blood, providing evidence of current or past infection. The testing typically follows a two-tier approach: an initial screening test followed by more specific confirmatory testing when needed.
Understanding Antibody Types and Timeline
Your body produces two main types of antibodies in response to Lyme disease. IgM antibodies typically appear 2-4 weeks after infection and indicate recent exposure. IgG antibodies develop several weeks to months later and can persist for years, suggesting past infection or later stages of the disease. The presence and pattern of these antibodies help healthcare providers determine the stage and timing of infection.
Other Relevant Tests
Lyme Disease, Antibodies (IgG, IgM), Immunoblot
This specialized confirmatory test uses immunoblot technology to detect specific antibody patterns against multiple Borrelia burgdorferi proteins. It identifies both IgG antibodies (indicating past infection or late-stage disease) and IgM antibodies (suggesting recent infection). The test analyzes specific protein bands that are characteristic of Lyme disease, providing detailed information about the immune response and helping to confirm the diagnosis with greater specificity.
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When to Consider Testing
Lyme disease testing is most appropriate when you have symptoms consistent with the infection, especially if you have a history of tick exposure or live in an area where Lyme disease is common. Early symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and the characteristic expanding rash (erythema migrans). Later symptoms can affect the joints, heart, and nervous system.
Important Testing Considerations
It's important to note that antibodies may not be detectable in the very early stages of infection, so timing of testing is crucial. False negatives can occur if testing is done too soon after infection, and false positives can occur due to cross-reactivity with other conditions. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in conjunction with your symptoms and clinical history.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Lyme disease testing should be ordered and interpreted by qualified healthcare professionals who can consider your complete clinical picture.
